Provost Office Reorganization Expected to Help UK Students

LEXINGTON, Ky. - In an effort to improve undergraduate education and deal with budget cuts, the University of Kentucky is implementing what officials call a strategic realignment of the Provost’s office.

When Dr. Tim Tracy took on the role of interim provost earlier this year, he was surprised to see how many administrative departments were under his purview, in addition to the colleges, libraries and graduate school.

“Each of them had their own efforts that they were working on, but I believe it can be better coordinated.”

Tracy announced details Friday of the re-organization that took effect in late August, which included the elimination of four associate provost positions and implementing a more streamlined reporting system.

“The purpose of the realignment was really to put the focus on student success and time with the colleges. And hopefully increase my effectiveness as well by allowing me to spend more time with those two areas,” says Tracy.

Several departments -- including institutional effectiveness, enrollment management, and international affairs – now report to the newly-created position of Senior Vice Provost for Student Success. That role will be filled on an interim basis by Dr. Dan O’Hair, who is also the Dean of UK’s College of Communication and Information.